RNC Chair Ronna McDaniel could be stepping down: Why it matters, and who could replace her

Republican National Committee Chair Ronna McDaniel looks increasingly likely to leave her leadership role in the party amid frustration from some committee members and very public prodding from former President Donald Trump.

Multiple sources familiar with a conversation between her and Trump have told ABC News that they discussed the possibility of her resigning from her position after the South Carolina primary, on Feb. 24.

And while the talks remain fluid, Michael Whatley, who serves as the chairman of the North Carolina Republican Party, has emerged as a prominent contender to serve as McDaniel's replacement. («Nothing has changed. This will be decided after South Carolina,» an RNC spokesperson said in a statement.)

The uncertainty over McDaniel's role and the RNC's direction in general — also given its poor fundraising last year — is playing out as Trump gears up for a likely general election battle against President Joe Biden.

While the chair of the RNC ostensibly has a big title, leading the main party organ, the job is not quite as significant as it sounds.

For example, the Republican chair is not in constant communication with congressional leaders guiding legislation on Capitol Hill — nor are they inside the White House every day or helping direct the choices of the party's numerous elected state and local officials.

However, the RNC head does play a significant role in fundraising and organizing for state parties to help solidify infrastructure for the party's candidates up and down the ballot. And on top of that, the chair serves as a significant megaphone to amplify whatever the GOP's message is for that particular election cycle.

«Basically, the RNC's job is to raise money to then do essentially two things: One,